Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in a meeting with his Maldivian counterpart, reaffirmed India’s commitment to enhancing relations with the Maldives. The discussions were held as part of a delegation-level meeting to deepen cooperation between the two countries.

Reflecting on the recent visit of President Mohamed Muizzu to India, Singh said, “I recall our brief meeting with you during the state visit of President Mohamed Muizzu to India in October 2024. The visit of the President of the Maldives has provided a new orientation to our bilateral relationship, and the Joint Vision Document released during the visit acts as a guiding principle for our two countries.”

He emphasised the enduring spiritual, historical, linguistic, and ethnic ties between the nations, describing the relationship as “close, cordial, and multidimensional.”

Singh noted that the Maldives holds a special position under India’s Neighbourhood First Policy, a strategic framework aimed at ensuring regional stability and prosperity. He added, “Maldives occupied a special place under Neighbourhood’s First Policy of India, which aimed to bring stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region.”

The Defence Minister further highlighted the joint role of India and the Maldives in ensuring security in the Indian Ocean. He said that both nations contribute to the framework of Security and Growth for All (SAGAR) in the region, reflecting their shared commitment to maintaining regional stability.

India’s robust defence cooperation with the Maldives was another focal point of the talks. Singh pointed out the avenues for capacity building offered by India, which include training programs, joint exercises, workshops, and the supply of defence equipment.

He emphasised the importance of maintaining this momentum, saying, “India will continue to support the Maldives and the Maldives National Defence Force in their capacity-building efforts through projects, equipment and training. As a trusted partner and a close friend, I assure you that India will continue to support Maldives on its development needs and welfare of its people.”

The relationship between India and the Maldives is built on a foundation of longstanding cultural, religious, and commercial ties, with India being among the first nations to recognise the Maldives after its independence in 1965. Geographically, the Maldives’ proximity to India’s west coast and its location along critical maritime trade routes further underscore its strategic importance.

Tourism also remains a cornerstone of the Maldivian economy, directly contributing to about a quarter of its GDP and accounting for a significant share of employment opportunities. With indirect contributions included, the tourism sector supports nearly 70% of the nation’s employment, highlighting its pivotal role in the Maldivian economy.

The robust bilateral cooperation between India and the Maldives aims to further strengthen these economic and strategic ties. (ANI)